2013 Mini Cooper S Paceman All4: Photo Gallery

Cars.com editors have referred to the 2013 Mini Cooper S Paceman using terms like "odd-looking" and "impractical" but also "fun to drive." Such is life for a vehicle that projects a bit of its own identity crisis: not exactly a coupe but not quite an SUV, and more or less a Countryman minus a couple of doors and a sleeker roof. The version we tested was the S Paceman All4, the model's optional all-wheel-drive version among its three trim levels; the base model offers only front-wheel drive while the high-performance John Cooper Works only comes with all-wheel drive.

The Paceman All4 starts at $29,200 but can run much higher. Our test car came to $39,800 with a host of options (all prices include a $700 destination fee).

All Paceman models come standard with a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder mated to a six-speed manual transmission, with estimated fuel economy of 23/30 mpg city/highway. Other standard features include sport alloy wheels with performance run-flat tires; seven airbags; a sport leather, tilt/telescoping steering wheel; Sport mode for quicker throttle and steering response; cruise control; power windows; and Bluetooth connectivity. The Paceman All4 also includes a four-year, 50,000-mile limited warranty; free maintenance for three years or 36,000 miles; and four years of roadside assistance.